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Test found ticking timebomb inside me

A SIMPLE ultrasound scan diagnosed a grandfather’s life-threatening aneurysm, which could have burst at any time.

Tony Richards, 65, decided to take the free screening test when an NHS invitation arrived through the post.

He was diagnosed with a ‘sizeable’ abdominal aortic aneurysm caused when the aorta, the main artery in the abdomen, becomes weak and starts to expand.

Around 6,000 people, mostly men aged 65 and over, die in England and Wales every year after large aneurysms rupture.

The screening service is part of a UK-wide programme for men over 65 which was launched last year – Southend Hospital provides the service for the whole of Essex after winning the bid to host it.

Mr Richards said: “It came as a bit of a shock to be diagnosed. I only did the test as it didn’t cost anything and I believe in prevention rather than cure.

“I had a further consultation and then the procedure was done.

“I had never heard of it before. We researched it online and found it was life threatening. I was in shock. I felt fighting fit and had no symptoms or pain.”

Mr Richards, who lives with his wife Sheila in Giffords Cross Road, Corringham, had the aneurysm removed by keyhole surgery on the Monday and was home by Friday.

He is now looking forward to getting back to his work as a selfemployed handyman.

The father of two said: “It’s the first time I’ve been in hospital since I was seven having my tonsils out. I’m so glad I went along for the screening.

"It was straightforward.

“I’m feeling more capable and feel I’ve progressed reasonably well.

“You can go through life with this condition until it ruptures – and then you’re dead. I’m very grateful to the surgeons for operating so quickly and thankful I went for the screening which saved my life.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to normal and going for walks with my grandchild.”

Comments

jolllyboy
3:10pm Tue 18 Feb 14

Excellent. i am a firm believer in these free tests. Prevention is always better than cure. Have to say though not everyone is offered this and some cannot even get things like a PSA test via Dr these days. Money.Money.

Excellent. i am a firm believer in these free tests. Prevention is always better than cure. Have to say though not everyone is offered this and some cannot even get things like a PSA test via Dr these days. Money.Money.jolllyboy

Excellent. i am a firm believer in these free tests. Prevention is always better than cure. Have to say though not everyone is offered this and some cannot even get things like a PSA test via Dr these days. Money.Money.

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